Tragic news struck the entertainment world as actor James Ransone, known for his role as Ziggy Sobotka in the critically acclaimed series “The Wire,” took his own life at the age of 46. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has confirmed the cause of death as apparent suicide.
Ransone’s career included notable performances in the horror film “It: Chapter Two” and television series such as “Generation Kill” and “Bosch.” His latest appearance on screen was a Season 2 episode of “Poker Face,” which aired in June.
Alongside his memorable roles in TV series, he featured in well-known films such as the “Sinister” series, “Tangerine,” “Mr. Right,” and those in the “Black Phone” franchise.
In a heartfelt interview with Interview Magazine back in 2016, Ransone spoke openly about the difficulties he faced during his childhood. He stated, “I did not fit in well with all of the kids. Adolescence was a really hard time for me—like it is for most kids.”
His mother noticed the challenges he endured in traditional schools and found an arts school, which he eagerly auditioned for and ultimately attended. “I think it saved me as a kid,” Ransone reflected. “Going to arts school saved me.”
Later, in pursuit of his passion for film, he attended a film school in New York but admitted he struggled with attendance due to not showing up to class. After a few tough years dabbling in smaller acting gigs and making music, he eventually rediscovered his true passion: acting.
At the age of 27, after battling a serious heroin addiction for five years, Ransone had a major awakening. “It was like I sobered up and I realized, ‘My job is being an actor. This is crazy!'” he shared.
Prior to filming “Generation Kill,” he had already begun his journey to sobriety, which he credited as a crucial turning point in his life. With his father being a Vietnam veteran, working alongside young marines in the series allowed Ransone to better understand his father’s past. “A lot of things started to make sense to me in a different way,” he mentioned, reflecting on the impact of the experience beyond just his career.
Ransone is survived by his loving wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two young children.
NBC News has reached out for comments from Ransone’s representatives but has not yet received a response.
If you or someone you care about is struggling, please reach out to a crisis hotline by calling or texting 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Alternatively, you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or explore resources at SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.
This story was initially shared on NBCNews.com
